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Elliston Puffin Viewing Site: A Seabird Spectacle

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Witness thousands of Atlantic puffins up close in their natural habitat at this accessible Newfoundland viewing site.

The Puffin Viewing Site in Elliston, Newfoundland, offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe Atlantic puffins in their natural habitat. From late May to September, thousands of these charming seabirds gather on the cliffs, providing visitors with an up-close and unforgettable wildlife experience.

A brief summary to Puffin Viewing Site

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during the peak breeding season (late May to early September) for the highest concentration of puffins.
  • Bring binoculars for a closer view of the puffins and other seabirds.
  • Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain around the viewing site can be uneven.
  • Be mindful of the cliff edges and avoid getting too close to avoid disturbing the birds.
  • Consider donating to support the maintenance and preservation of the viewing site.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the main road in Elliston, the Puffin Viewing Site is a short, five-minute walk. Follow the well-worn path from the designated parking area to the cliff edge. The path is generally easy to navigate but can be uneven in places, so watch your step.

  • Driving

    From Bonavista, take Route 230 to Route 238 East towards Elliston. Follow Route 238 to Maberly Road, where you'll find the Puffin Viewing Site. Parking is available in a designated lot near the site. Be aware that Route 238 may have potholes. Parking is free.

Discover more about Puffin Viewing Site

Perched on the rugged coastline of the Bonavista Peninsula, the Elliston Puffin Viewing Site provides one of the most accessible land-based locations in North America to witness the captivating lives of Atlantic puffins. Known as the 'clowns of the sea' due to their colorful beaks and playful antics, these birds create a vibrant spectacle during their breeding season.From late May to September, thousands of puffins flock to Elliston to nest and raise their young. The viewing site, a short five-minute walk from the main road, allows visitors to stand mere meters away from the puffins as they flutter between the cliffs and the ocean. This close proximity offers incredible opportunities for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.Beyond the puffins, the area teems with other seabird species, including Black Guillemots, Common Murres, Northern Gannets, and Kittiwakes, enriching the experience for birdwatchers. The site is free to visit, though donations are encouraged to help with upkeep. While visiting, be sure to explore Elliston, also known as the 'Root Cellar Capital of the World', and discover the unique cultural heritage of this charming Newfoundland town.
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